September’s Best Beauty Launches

Guide

Sunscreen & SPF

What is SPF?

Sunscreen is a skincare product that helps protect your skin from the sun’s UV (ultraviolet) rays. , or Sun Protection Factor, measures protection against rays, which are responsible for sunburn. But UVA rays matter too, contributing to long-term skin damage and premature ageing. That’s why I always recommend looking for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB.

Sunscreen & SPF
Freddie Jones

Freddie’s take

Sunscreen is a non-negotiable in every daily skincare routine. But choosing one can feel anything but straightforward, with endless information and misinformation around SPF ratings, UVA and UVB.

My advice is simple: look for broad-spectrum protection, SPF 50+ and strong UVA protection, then find a formula that works for your skin and that you’ll actually enjoy using.

What to look for

SPF 50+

SPF measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn. For the highest possible protection, I recommend looking for SPF 50+.

UVA + UVB protection

SPF only tells you about UVB protection, so it’s important to choose a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB. An easy way to remember the difference is UV A geing vs. UV B urning.

Broad-spectrum protection

A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. For the highest possible protection, look for SPF 50+ coupled with a 5 or PA++++ UVA rating*.

A formula you’ll actually use

Both mineral and chemical sunscreens can be highly effective, so it ultimately comes down to skin type and preference. Mineral sunscreens can be a great choice for sensitive or blemish-prone skin, while chemical formulas tend to be lightweight and invisible on the skin.

How to get the most from your SPF

01

Apply enough. For your face, neck and décolletage, apply approximately ¼ of a teaspoon, or use the ‘3 finger rule’.

02

Reapply when needed. If you’re in prolonged or direct sunlight, reapply every 2 hours and always after sweating, swimming or drying yourself with a towel.

03

Wear it all year round. Yes, absolutely. You should apply sunscreen every single day, even on cloudy days. UVA is present all year round and can largely penetrate glass as well as clouds.

04

Don’t forget your ears. When applying sunscreen to your face, this is an easy area to miss.

Routine plannerCheck how your actives fit togetherAdd what is already on your shelf to see your morning and evening order and avoid ingredient clashes.

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